Bristol Bears star to sign off his season with the Barbarians

Kyle Sinckler is set to continue the long-standing tradition of Bristol Bears players running out for the Barbarians after the England international prop has been called up by the invitational side for this summer’s Killik Cup clash against Fiji.

The 31-year-old tighthead prop will run out in the world-famous Black and White hoops for the first time in his career on Saturday 22 June (kick-off: 5.15pm), when the BaaBaas lock horns with the Flying Fijians at Twickenham Stadium. The showdown sees the Rugby World Cup quarter-finalists come up against the invitational side, who this summer are led by Kiwi coach Robbie Deans – with the likes of Danny Care, Ben Youngs, Zach Mercer, Jonathan Joseph, Jonny May, David Ribbans and now Sinckler already named amongst the Barbarians’ ranks for the game.

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Sinckler, who will leave the Bears for Toulon this summer, said: “First and foremost, it’s a massive honour for me to be asked to represent the Barbarians. I remember growing up and watching the BaaBaas, thinking they were like the Harlem Globetrotters of rugby – a team playing with a unique style, packed full of superstar players. It is definitely something I’ve always wanted to experience myself.

“I’m excited to connect with a new group of players, some of whom I will have played alongside before, and others who I’ll only ever have played against previously. The Barbarians is obviously a more laid-back environment, but there’s essentially a Test match against Fiji to prepare for at the end of the week, so I’m looking forward to seeing how this group of world-class players approach it.

“Whether it’s been with England, the Lions, or in club rugby, I’ve always loved learning off other players who have achieved great things in their careers. You want to ask the right questions and be a keen observer of what the best players in the world are doing to get better. Especially in the front row, there’s always more to learn, so I can’t wait to get started and will enjoy everything the Barbarians experience has to offer.”

Over 55,000 people have already secured their seats for the biggest rugby showcase of the summer. Tickets for the clash are on sale now from Ticketmaster , Ticketek or the RFU and also include entry to the Qatar Airways Cup showdown between South Africa and Wales. The two international heavyweights go toe-to-toe at 2.00pm, ahead of Barbarians vs Fiji.